Best 3 Alessandros Secret Spinach Recipes

**Spinach: A Versatile Leafy Green with Endless Culinary Possibilities**

Spinach, a leafy green vegetable belonging to the Amaranthaceae family, is renowned for its nutritional value and culinary versatility. With its mild flavor and tender texture, spinach seamlessly blends into a wide range of dishes, from salads and soups to main courses and baked goods. This article presents a collection of delectable recipes showcasing the diverse culinary applications of spinach. From the classic creamed spinach, a timeless Southern comfort food, to the vibrant spinach pesto, a versatile sauce bursting with flavor, these recipes highlight the many ways spinach can elevate any meal. Additionally, we explore creative recipes like spinach and ricotta stuffed shells, a delightful combination of textures and flavors, and spinach banana smoothie, a refreshing and nutritious drink perfect for breakfast or a post-workout snack. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, these spinach recipes offer something for every palate and skill level, inspiring you to incorporate this leafy green into your meals in exciting new ways.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

GARLIC SAUTEED SPINACH

Garlic Sauteed Spinach image

Dinner couldn't be simpler with Ina Garten's Garlic Sauteed Spinach recipe from Barefoot Contessa on Food Network. It's an easy, go-to side dish for your table.

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories side-dish

Time 10m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds baby spinach leaves
2 tablespoons good olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped garlic (6 cloves)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Lemon
Sea or kosher salt, optional

Steps:

Rinse the spinach well in cold water to make sure it's very clean. Spin it dry in a salad spinner, leaving just a little water clinging to the leaves.
In a very large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and saute the garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute, but not until it's browned. Add all the spinach, the salt, and pepper to the pot, toss it with the garlic and oil, cover the pot, and cook it for 2 minutes. Uncover the pot, turn the heat on high, and cook the spinach for another minute, stirring with a wooden spoon, until all the spinach is wilted. Using a slotted spoon, lift the spinach to a serving bowl and top with the butter, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkling of sea or kosher salt. Serve hot.

ALESSANDRO'S SECRET SPINACH

Alessandro's Secret Spinach image

I got this recipe in The Oregonian FOODday section back in the '80's. This recipe was requested by a customer and the owner, Moe Akhbari Of Alessandro's Restaurant, Portland, Oregon, gave the recipe to FOODday. This was their most requested recipe. This is a great side dish. Also good base for your favorite spinach lasagna or...

Provided by Susan Kelly

Categories Vegetables

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

3/4 c chicken broth
1 lb spinach (4 medium bunches)
3 qt water
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
1 clove garlic, minced
1-1/2 Tbsp olive oil
1/8 tsp dried red pepper flakes

Steps:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil and cook until reduced to 6 tablespoons. Set aside.
2. Remove the stems from the spinach and wash well in cold water. Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Add the spinach and stir until all the leaves have cooked, about 1 minute. Drain the spinach and cool. Once cooled, squeeze excess water from spinach.
3. In saute pan, over medium heat, saute the garlic in olive oil until golden brown. Add the red pepper flakes, spinach and reduced chicken broth. Stir and cook about 2 minutes or until heated. Season to taste. Serve hot.

SPINACH AND APPLE SALAD WITH CRISPY ALMONDS

Spinach and Apple Salad with Crispy Almonds image

Categories Salad Fruit Nut Side Vegetarian Quick & Easy Lunch Apple Almond Spinach Fall Healthy Sesame Bon Appétit

Yield Makes 6 to 8 Servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1/4 cup minced onion
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1/4 teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3/4 cup blanched slivered almonds (about 3 ounces)
1 10- ounce bag ready-to-use spinach leaves
2 medium-size red-skinned apples, quartered, cored, thinly sliced

Steps:

Combine onion, cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, sesame seeds and paprika in small bowl. Mix in 2 tablespoons sugar. Gradually whisk in olive oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
Melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add almonds. Stir until almonds begin to color, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle remaining 1 tablespoon sugar over. Stir until sugar melts and begins to turn golden, about 2 minutes longer. Transfer almonds to bowl and cool. (Dressing and almonds can be prepared 4 hours ahead. Cover separately and let stand at room temperature.)
Combine spinach and apples in large bowl. Toss with enough dressing to coat. Mix in almonds. Serve salad, passing any remaining dressing separately.

Tips:

Use fresh baby spinach. Baby spinach has a milder flavor and more tender texture than mature spinach.
Wash the spinach thoroughly. Spinach can be gritty, so be sure to rinse it well before using.
Cook the spinach briefly. Overcooking will make the spinach tough and bitter.
Season the spinach to taste. Spinach pairs well with a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Serve the spinach immediately. Spinach is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion:

Alessandro's secret spinach is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a main course, or an appetizer, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.